As the year draws to a close, we take a closer look at five inspiring entrepreneurs who are making a meaningful difference in their industries. These founders, from diverse backgrounds, have built businesses rooted in creativity, practicality, and a strong sense of purpose. Whether it’s sustainable fashion, mental health advocacy, or innovative design solutions, each of their ventures offers a glimpse into what it takes to bring an idea to life. What drives these founders to persevere through challenges and stay true to their vision?
This week’s Founder Series introduces five entrepreneurs who are carving their own paths in industries from history education to fashion, with a focus on sustainability and authenticity. Whether it’s Alex Churchill’s dedication to bringing history to life through The Great War Group or Bruce King’s innovative marketing strategies with Out’a The Box Marketing Ltd, each founder brings something distinct to the table. Paige Fashoni’s Fluxies is challenging the status quo of period products, offering sustainable and comfortable alternatives, while Jak Beula’s Nubian Jak Community Trust is making strides in cultural awareness and education. James Gaubert’s Republiqe is stepping into the future of fashion with virtual clothing, proving that the digital world holds endless possibilities. These founders are not just riding the wave of trends—they’re creating ripples that will last for years to come.
It’s December, and while the world is abuzz with end-of-year celebrations, these founders are quietly making waves in their respective fields. Each of their journeys is unique, yet all share a common thread: the courage to start something meaningful. Kate Shelley is equipping young minds with the power of storytelling through Tales Toolkit, while Amechi Mandi is reclaiming African-inspired design with elegance and authenticity. Meanwhile, Kuldip Singh Sahota’s Mr. Singhs is spicing up snack time with bold flavors, Oana Trinca’s Bee Zero Waste is offering sustainable solutions with style, and Nikki Lloyd’s Lush Labs Natural is championing ethical skincare manufacturing for small businesses. But what really makes them stand out is how their ventures address real-world challenges: sustainability, creativity, and community building. Their paths weren’t smooth—think financial hurdles, balancing personal lives, and building the right teams—but they pressed forward with unwavering dedication.
In this week’s Founder Series, we meet five entrepreneurs whose businesses reflect the creativity, determination, and purpose driving today’s most impactful ventures. These founders, hailing from various industries, share a common commitment to solving problems and creating meaningful connections through their work. Elizabeth Hewitt uses her art to promote mental health awareness, combining her talent for portraits and landscapes with a deeper message. Niall Greenan’s Smart Bunker offers a straightforward solution to an age-old problem with innovative storage design. Tanya Rodgers empowers passion-led businesses with bespoke branding through Me & Spirit Creative. Bill Strohacker is redefining design education with a hands-on approach at his independent school. Finally, Hannah Attalah’s artisanal swimwear blends sustainability and style, offering a unique take on slow fashion. Each of these founders has overcome challenges, stayed focused on their goals, and demonstrated the resilience required to grow a business in today’s world.
This week’s Founder Series takes a close look at five UK entrepreneurs whose journeys highlight the power of adaptability and persistence. Each of these founders has built a business that’s grounded in both creativity and practicality, offering products and services that solve real-world problems. From Hugo Spiegl’s transformation of his family’s printing business into a handmade stationery brand, to Emily Lamb’s rise in the luxury cake stand world, these founders are showing that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of staying true to your mission. Despite facing their own set of challenges—from Brexit to navigating the pandemic—they’ve managed to create something that resonates with customers and addresses the needs of today’s market.
In this week’s Founder Series, we highlight five entrepreneurs whose work is rooted in addressing everyday challenges. From supporting individuals with learning disabilities to offering inclusive fashion, their businesses aren’t just about making money—they’re about making a difference. Nick Walsh’s Nickel Support is focused on empowering people with learning disabilities to thrive, providing a holistic approach that includes work opportunities and life skills. Paul Blair’s ArcX Technology has developed smart rings that help people control devices hands-free, offering a more practical solution for active users. Chamiah Dewey’s DEWEY is addressing the underrepresented petite market with fashion that’s both stylish and inclusive. Sholto and Hugo Brown’s id-iom continues to experiment with art that blends urban culture and personal expression. Finally, Eva Malley’s accessible art products provide an affordable way for everyone to engage with creativity. Each of these founders has faced unique challenges, from funding issues to balancing personal lives with business growth. But what unites them is a clear focus on solving practical problems and staying true to their values. They’re showing that businesses can succeed while making a real difference.
In this week’s Founder Series, we shine a light on five entrepreneurs who are creating meaningful contributions in their industries through passion and determination. Denholm Spurr of OffWestEnd champions independent theatres in London, helping them find a collective voice. Chris O’Brien at RunTeach uses his understanding of neuroscience to support people in managing pain and improving performance. Jean Haines shares her love of painting through Watercolour Inspiration, inspiring creativity and personal expression. Megan Lomax, alongside her husband, designs practical outdoor gear for families through Rubbaglove Ltd. And finally, Audra Daws-Knowles curates unique and authentic vintage jewelry with her business, Audra’s Brooches. Their journeys highlight the rewards of staying true to one’s mission and finding creative solutions to challenges, no matter the scale of the venture.
As the year draws to a close, the business world continues to evolve. In this edition of The Founder Series, we explore the journeys of five UK entrepreneurs who are making their mark by challenging the norms of their respective industries. Stacie McCormick’s Fair Art Fair is transforming the art world by breaking down barriers and connecting artists with collectors in more personal, meaningful ways. Jeremy Mitchell’s Upbeat Spirits is redefining the spiced rum category, tapping into the heart of music and culture. From the eco-conscious efforts of Friendly Soap’s Geoff Kerouac to the design-driven luxury interiors of Anna Agapova’s O&A London, these founders are not just responding to changing consumer needs—they’re shaping the future of business by staying grounded in their values. Join us as we take a closer look at how they’re navigating the challenges of 2024 while remaining true to their unique visions.
In today’s e-commerce landscape, meeting consumer expectations is key to staying competitive. Shoppers increasingly value businesses that prioritize sustainability, offer creative solutions, and foster genuine connections. Aligning with these trends is not just a choice—it’s a necessity for success. This week, we highlight five UK-based entrepreneurs who are quietly making a difference in fields as varied as fashion, photography, and food delivery. From Claire King’s sustainable fashion platform, King & Eye, to Alec White’s efforts in regenerative farming at Primrose Hall Peonies, these founders are showing that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of values. Whether it’s reducing environmental impact, championing local craftsmanship, or building trust with their customers, these entrepreneurs are finding ways to thrive while staying true to their principles. Let’s explore their stories, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
As the colder months approach, we’re reminded that, just like the seasons, the business landscape is constantly changing. In this week's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. In this month's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. From sustainable cold water therapy to high-quality artisanal yarns, these founders are demonstrating how passion, persistence, and a commitment to values can create meaningful businesses. Each of their journeys reflects a dedication to quality, community, and the belief that doing things the right way is always worth the effort.
What does it take to build a business that goes beyond convenience to truly inspire? For these five founders, the answer lies in creativity, purpose, and a strong foundation of passion and unique offerings. From fostering community to crafting distinctive products and experiences, their ventures reflect the growing demand for authenticity and meaningful connections in today’s market. From curating contemporary design platforms to preserving heritage skills like traditional boatbuilding, these founders are carving out unique niches in their respective fields. Their businesses prioritize creativity, quality, and meaningful connections, reflecting a deep commitment to purpose and authenticity. By combining their personal passions with innovative approaches, they’re meeting the needs of today’s discerning consumers while setting examples of what thoughtful entrepreneurship can achieve.In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week's Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with sustainable fashion to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance but also responding to the evolving needs of today's consumers.
In today’s ever-evolving marketplace, businesses that stand out are those that tap into both passion and purpose. This week, we focus on five UK-based entrepreneurs who are blending creativity with meaningful missions. From Cool Car Limited’s specialized mobile air conditioning services to Bare Kind’s eco-friendly fashion that supports wildlife conservation, these founders are meeting consumer needs while driving positive change. Their journeys showcase how passion can fuel not just personal success but broader impacts—from protecting endangered species to fostering global communities of craft enthusiasts. As we approach the season of giving, these entrepreneurs highlight how doing business with purpose can lead to both growth and genuine impact.
As we enter the final stretch of the year, these founders are quietly transforming their respective industries. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, they’re focusing on what matters: creating businesses that resonate with a generation of consumers who seek purpose behind their purchases. Scarlet Alexandra’s SAX DOODLE reimagines how we view cities through travel posters that capture the essence of a place, rather than its clichés. Dr. Sean Radford’s TrainAsONE is making running more accessible and effective by personalizing training with AI, showing how technology can be harnessed for real-world improvements. Their businesses are examples of how combining passion with practical innovation can create lasting impact.
In an era where consumers are seeking more than just products—they’re looking for meaningful connections—these five UK entrepreneurs stand out for their ability to merge passion with practical solutions. From Kim Lawless' The Wax Queen Ltd, which redefines beauty care through skillful training and innovative products, to Nathalie Gibbins' Pow Pots, which infuses vibrant artistry into everyday items, these founders are creating businesses that resonate deeply with their communities. Their ventures prove that entrepreneurship isn’t just about meeting market demands; it’s about addressing real needs, personal challenges, and crafting experiences that make a lasting impact. Let’s take a closer look at how their creativity, resilience, and commitment to authenticity have paved the way for success.
The shift in consumer preferences towards quality, sustainability, and authenticity has made an undeniable mark on today’s business landscape. This week’s Founder Series introduces five entrepreneurs who are harnessing these trends to build distinctive brands. Whether it’s giving overlooked authors a platform, crafting award-winning beers, or innovating in the whisky industry, these founders are making waves in their respective fields. What unites them is a clear commitment to offering products and services that meet the evolving expectations of today’s consumer, all while staying true to their values and vision.
As the holiday season gains momentum, consumers are searching for products that combine quality with authenticity. This week’s Founder Series highlights five remarkable UK entrepreneurs whose businesses bring joy, sustainability, and innovation to the forefront. From Catherine Kay’s whimsical designs at Katnipp Studios Limited to Dan Shearman’s ethical food innovations at The WilderKitchen, these founders embody the values driving today’s market. Each of their ventures reflects a commitment to their craft and a deep understanding of what modern consumers value most: purpose-driven products, meaningful stories, and thoughtful connections. Through their creativity and resilience, these entrepreneurs are carving out distinctive spaces in industries as diverse as photography, fine jewelry, and sustainable food. Let’s delve into their journeys, challenges, and the impactful ways they’re shaping their respective markets.
In an era where consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and deeper connections, these five UK-based entrepreneurs have found ways to balance profit with purpose. Whether it’s offering creative products that enhance personal spaces or providing innovative solutions for modern transportation, each founder’s journey reflects a commitment to both their industries and the communities they serve. With the holiday season in full swing, these businesses demonstrate that it’s possible to grow while staying true to the values that matter most. In this edition of The Founder Series, we spotlight their efforts to create meaningful impact—one business at a time.
This week’s Founder Series highlights the power of combining personal passion with a purposeful mission. Each of these five UK entrepreneurs has built a business that not only meets modern consumer demands but also reflects their values and creative approaches. From Alastair Gibson’s intricate carbon-fiber sculptures that celebrate the beauty of engineering and nature, to Deborah Cadby’s sustainable jewelry crafted from antique stones, these founders are finding unique ways to connect with their audiences. Whether it's supporting mental well-being through art, enhancing musical journeys with innovative tools, or tackling environmental concerns with sustainable printing, they exemplify the creativity and resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive market. As we explore their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, we see how they’ve transformed personal passion into tangible solutions that leave a lasting impression on their industries and communities.
As December kicks off, the season of thoughtful giving and mindful consumption is upon us. In this week’s Founder Series, we’re spotlighting five UK entrepreneurs whose businesses align perfectly with today’s demand for creativity, sustainability, and community connection. Jennifer Countess von Walderdorff champions sustainable fashion with Look at the Labels, a platform empowering consumers to shop responsibly. Caroline Boff’s vibrant artwork uplifts viewers, showing the power of creativity to inspire. Marek Lukacovic’s brands, Strike and AlviPro, focus on ethical growth in sportswear and wellness. Scott Benefield preserves traditional glassblowing craftsmanship through his Northern Ireland studio, and Jefferson Boss of StarmoreBoss redefines drinks retail with innovation and education. Amid ongoing shifts in consumer values, these founders stand out for their ability to adapt, connect, and make a positive impact. Their stories highlight how passion and purpose can shape industries, spark meaningful connections, and thrive in an ever-evolving market.
In this week’s Founder Series, we turn the spotlight on five UK entrepreneurs who are solving real problems with their businesses. Whether it’s offering tailored leather jackets or reinventing how furniture is personalized, these founders are creating products and services that reflect the changing needs of consumers. As the holiday season ramps up, they’re finding ways to balance growth with staying true to their missions. Here’s a closer look at how they’re navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and leaving their mark on the e-commerce landscape.
What inspires an entrepreneur to turn personal frustrations, dreams, or passions into thriving businesses? This week’s Founder Series introduces five UK entrepreneurs who have done just that, bringing fresh perspectives to their industries. From crafting biodegradable sunglasses to offering new approaches in children’s education, these founders demonstrate that combining purpose with innovation leads to meaningful outcomes. Rou Chater’s FacePlant is redefining eyewear with eco-friendly, replaceable lenses, while Jim Ashley’s Outlaw Rum challenges the status quo in premium spirits. Meanwhile, Robert McKain’s Pure Roasters Coffee pioneers a sustainable approach to roasting, Katie Godfrey creates opportunities in beauty and coaching, and Ruth Bradford’s Little Black & White Book Project sparks curiosity and conservation in children. Their stories highlight not just business acumen but also how purpose-driven innovation can address consumer demands while leaving a lasting impact.
In this week's Founder Series, we explore the stories of five entrepreneurs who are transforming their industries with thoughtful, values-driven approaches. Each founder brings a unique vision to their work, whether it’s crafting urban contemporary art, redefining natural perfumery, or championing inclusion through music. From Otto Schade’s striking murals that blend art with social commentary to Chantal Kerr-Sheppard’s efforts to make events sustainable through Event Cycle, these founders are setting powerful examples of innovation and purpose. Meanwhile, Kershen Teo and Sophie King are reimagining perfumery, offering ethical alternatives that resonate with modern consumers. Lastly, Susan Zur-Szpiro’s leadership of The AutistiX is breaking barriers in music by highlighting inclusion and the value of diverse talent. Each of these ventures not only addresses market demands but also creates lasting impact, offering lessons in resilience, creativity, and staying true to one’s mission.
In today’s ever-changing business landscape, success isn’t always about grand gestures or big investments—it’s about solving problems, staying true to values, and building meaningful connections. For these five founders, each day is about doing just that. Conor Rees started 99 Percent Lifestyle to share the stories of creative entrepreneurs who are making a difference, while Ernest Amoako’s Blanqo helps holidaymakers enjoy their skiing experience without the hefty price tag. Vladislav Barrow’s AI Art Shop brings technology and art together, offering a new platform for digital creators, while Lisa Gorenflo’s Mantrailing Global is teaching dogs and owners to work together in ways that foster a real sense of community. Cristina Leone Santos’s Puzzle Designs creates jewelry that empowers women to feel confident, without compromising on quality. These founders are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, practical approaches.
In an increasingly fast-paced world, wellness and lifestyle brands are finding ways to slow down and focus on what truly matters. These five founders have each developed businesses that prioritize quality, connection, and purpose over mass production and rapid growth. Whether it’s by supporting the physical goals of endurance athletes, creating artisanal products that celebrate craftsmanship, or offering art that resonates on a personal level, these entrepreneurs are reshaping the way we think about lifestyle and wellness. Here’s how they’re enriching lives, building communities, and making a meaningful impact through their innovative approaches.
In an industry where convenience and speed often overshadow sustainability, these five founders are showing that online retail can have a conscience. Each of them has built a brand that prioritizes responsible sourcing, environmental impact, and lasting quality over fast profits. Whether it’s transforming waste into fashion or creating energy-efficient lighting solutions, these entrepreneurs are using e-commerce as a platform to drive positive change. Here’s how they’re combining business with purpose, turning ethical craftsmanship into a competitive advantage, and inspiring a new wave of consumer responsibility.
In a space where large-scale corporations and rapid algorithms dictate the pace, e-commerce may seem like an unlikely field for deeply personal, purpose-driven brands. But these five women are proving that e-commerce can be more than just a storefront; it can be a meaningful connection between brands and consumers. They’re showing that digital platforms can support ethical businesses that are as diverse as their founders, from cultural products and eco-friendly goods to personal wellness services. Each founder’s story is a testament to resilience and creativity in a rapidly evolving market.
In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week’s Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with carbon-negative products to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance profitability with values, staying resilient through the challenges of modern entrepreneurship. And this is why we’re zooming in on these founders this week—to explore how their visions are not only contributing to their industries but also responding to the evolving needs of today’s consumers.
The UK e-commerce sector offers both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, as seen through the experiences of this week’s featured founders. From Jordan Sheppard’s innovative affiliate program at Voltsco to Aidan Farrell’s success in the electric bike market with Go Off-Road Barnsley & Wakefield, each entrepreneur has found a unique way to thrive. Lauretta and Sharon Gavin have made wellness accessible through their brand, Gavin Sisters, while Abigail Ahern continues to redefine home décor with Abigail Ahern Interiors. Meanwhile, Guy Bolton’s Greasy Kulture proves that print media still has a place in niche markets like custom motorcycles. These founders share their stories of overcoming cash flow issues, building loyal customer bases, and creating innovative solutions in their respective industries.
Though called an industry generally, and by us on the UNREAL Rockstars editorial team, e-commerce isn’t exactly an industry—rather, it functions as a point of sale for many industries. This dynamic makes the e-commerce landscape broad and explorative, spanning everything from colorful diamonds and shiny objects to the blended worlds of music and café life. And exactly this is what we have in store for this feature, starting with the lucrative diamond industry.
If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Swedish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Sweden. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.
If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Danish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Denmark. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.
We will be taking a closer look at a handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from the Netherlands, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the rapidly evolving Dutch ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from the Netherlands who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with cutting-edge platforms, these forward-thinking Dutch entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in the Netherlands. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the Dutch market.
We will take a closer look at handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from Germany, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the fast-paced German ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from Germany who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with innovative platforms, these forward-thinking German entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in Germany. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the German market.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the art itself, one founder is making a name for herself with her unique style and commitment to promoting mental health. 'I specialise in portraits, landscapes and buildings, and illustration for children’s books, all created in a distinctive style,' she says. Her main mediums are oils, watercolours, pen and ink, pencil and experimenting with digital colour.
Elizabeth grew up in Leicester, UK, about 100 miles from London. She has been encouraged by several key mentors that have supported her throughout her journey, which she feels is really important, as they can see your potential and can pass down their skills. She's had help with building her first blog site promoting her Art, writing about her work and dealing with people.
Lizzy Hewitt Artist is a boutique art studio that specializes in creating unique and meaningful art pieces. The studio's main focus is on promoting mental health and people's understanding of various mental health conditions and the problems they face. 'My biggest desire is to promote mental health and people's understand of various mental health conditions and the problems they face,' Elizabeth says.
One of the biggest challenges Elizabeth has faced is selling her pictures throughout a variety of outlets, which isn't always easy. 'Doing it on your own is difficult, but you can usually find people around you on your side and will always be there to offer help and encouragement at your lowest times, even when you think you want to give up,' she says.
Elizabeth's proudest achievement is gifting a painting to the late Queen with a letter of thanks from the lady in waiting. 'The painting was called 'A Right Royal Street Party' and can be seen on my website at: www.lizzyhewitt.com and Saatchi online: https://www.saatchiart.com/en-gb/LizzyHewitt,' she says.
In a business where innovation is key, one founder has created a product that is solving a problem that has been around for centuries. 'The Smart Bunker is a simple solution to an age-old problem,' he says. 'Until now, there has been no product that robustly addresses user ability and Health and Safety issues as well as the Smart Bunker.'
Niall grew up in Castlewellan, Co/Down, N/Ireland. He worked as a stonemason and bricklayer before coming up with the idea for the Smart Bunker. 'I was pulling pints when I was able to reach the pumps,' he says. 'Everyday is a learning day!'
Greenans products Limited is a company that specializes in creating innovative storage solutions. The company's first product was the Smart Bunker, an innovative storage bunker with a spring-loaded side lever that releases stacked product at the bottom of the container. 'The Smart Bunker provides significant competitive advantages, allowing the company to meet growing demand, and explore new market opportunities,' Niall says.
One of the biggest challenges Niall has faced is the COVID pandemic, which has affected the company's ability to manufacture and distribute the Smart Bunker. 'Brexit has been a challenge with higher cost and paperwork and rules, But like all business we pushed ahead,' he says.
Niall's proudest achievement is the recognition the Smart Bunker has received from various organizations. 'The Smart Bunker has Endorsements and Approvals: HETAS: Approved for use with solid fuels, emphasising its safety and effectiveness,' he says.
In a business where creativity is key, one founder is making a name for herself with her unique approach to branding. 'Me & Spirit Creative is a boutique brand agency that helps passion-led businesses and multi-passionate creatives express their unique spirit through meaningful branding,' she says.
Tanya grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She has a degree in Music and a Master's in Composition. She taught herself branding and design, starting with £10 logo commissions for Etsy sellers to build her skills.
Me & Spirit Creative is a boutique brand agency that specializes in creating authentic and impactful brands. The agency provides a blend of brand strategy and design services, offering everything from brand clarity sessions to bespoke brand identity packages. 'I focus on the spirit of each client's business, crafting bespoke solutions that reflect their individuality and values,' Tanya says.
One of the biggest challenges Tanya has faced is overcoming her own self-doubt. 'As a self-taught designer, I've often worried that I might not be as good as those with a formal design education,' she says. However, she has learned to reframe her mindset and see her background as a strength.
Tanya's proudest achievement is completing the rebrand for 12 Bar Music and Social, a vibrant café and record shop in Exeter. 'Seeing the physical space transformed into something that perfectly matched their vision was incredibly rewarding,' she says.
In a business where innovation is key, one founder is creating a new approach to design education. 'Strohacker Design School is a forward-thinking, independent design education hub that bridges the gap between traditional education and industry demands,' he says.
Bill grew up in Worthing, West Sussex. He has over 30 years of experience in design and education, having worked as a creative director, designer, and educator. He has also developed and authored unique courses in graphic design and fashion media.
Strohacker Design School is a design education hub that specializes in providing hands-on, practical training in graphic design, branding, and creative communication. The school addresses the problem of outdated or overly theoretical design programs by providing personalized mentorship, industry-relevant projects, and a focus on creativity, adaptability, and professional readiness.
One of the biggest challenges Bill has faced is the COVID pandemic, which has affected the school's ability to provide in-person training. 'I overcame this by developing a highly successful online course, which not only maintained the quality of our teaching but also expanded our reach, attracting new students from around the world,' he says.
Bill's proudest achievement is seeing his first student sign-up land a job as an in-house graphic designer at Pfizer's London office just three months after completing the course. 'It was incredibly rewarding and a testament to the power of determination and the right guidance,' he says.
In a business where creativity is key, one founder is making a name for herself with her unique approach to fashion. 'We design hand embroidered artisanal collections mostly swimwear and ready to wear,' she says.
Hannah grew up in London. She studied fashion and business and has always been obsessed with vintage fashion and textiles. She started her business after deciding to turn her love for painting into a full-time pursuit.
Hannah Attalah is a boutique fashion brand that specializes in creating unique and meaningful clothing. The brand's main focus is on promoting sustainability and reducing waste in the fashion industry. 'We don't have any close competitors in the swim market due to our supply chain,' Hannah says.
One of the biggest challenges Hannah has faced is finding the right staff and managing capacity. 'I found better recruiters and also worked on my production team,' she says.
Hannah's proudest achievement is launching with Harrods and debuting an article in American Vogue. 'It was a huge moment for us,' she says.
These five entrepreneurs exemplify how creativity and perseverance can lead to impactful ventures. Elizabeth Hewitt uses her artistic talent to raise awareness about mental health, while Niall Greenan’s Smart Bunker provides a simple but effective storage solution. Tanya Rodgers shows how meaningful branding can transform businesses, and Bill Strohacker proves that education can evolve to meet real-world demands. Meanwhile, Hannah Attalah’s sustainable fashion highlights the importance of mindful consumerism. As these founders reflect on their journeys, they share invaluable advice: “Research is key, and the internet is a great place to start,” says Niall Greenan. “Embrace your individuality,” Tanya Rodgers adds, “and don’t feel pressured to fit into a predefined niche.” Elizabeth Hewitt emphasizes the power of collaboration: “You can’t succeed alone—find partners and supporters.” Their stories remind us that staying true to your values while adapting to challenges is the key to building a business that lasts.
